What are some causes of elbow pain?

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Quick Answer

According to WebMD, elbow pain can be caused by tendinitis. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis and golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, are two common forms of tendinitis in the elbow.

The Mayo Clinic adds dislocation of the elbow, a broken elbow, ligament tears or sprains, rheumatoid arthritis and cubital tunnel syndrome as other potential causes of elbow pain. Often, elbow pain is due to overuse or some form of injury related to sports. Jobs and other activities that require repetitive movement of the elbow can also cause discomfort.

If a person is experiencing elbow pain due to tendinitis or repetitive movements, he can use ice packs, rest and anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief. WebMD states that for someone with more severe pain, cortisone injections or physical therapy may be prescribed. WebMD explains the elbow as a hinge where the humerus, ulna and the radius meet and form a joint. It is able to bend forwards and backwards, as well as twist side to side. The biceps and triceps are the muscles responsible for allowing the elbow to move in various ways. In the joint of the elbow there are tendons and bursa or fluid-filled sac. Once the sac or tendons become irritated, they become inflamed and cause pain.